Goafest 2026 is set to return with an expanded edition of GoaFresh, its dedicated initiative aimed at nurturing and connecting the next generation of talent with India’s advertising, media, and marketing industry.

Now in its second year, GoaFresh has evolved into a significant platform that bridges academia and industry by offering students direct exposure to top professionals, agencies, brands, and creative leaders. The initiative is designed to identify promising young minds while giving them an immersive understanding of the rapidly evolving communication ecosystem.

This year’s edition will see participation from several leading institutions across India, including Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad, Mudra Institute of Communications Ahmedabad, S. P. Jain Institute of Management and Research, Symbiosis Institute of Media and Communication, and Whistling Woods International among others.

The initiative aims to create a launchpad for students by enabling them to engage with industry experts, gain first-hand insights into the advertising business, and build confidence before entering the professional world.

Rohit Ohri, Founder of Ohriginal and Advisor Committee member at Goafest, described GoaFresh as an invitation for young minds to experience creativity and innovation from within the industry. Meanwhile, Gokul Krishnamoorthy, who is leading student outreach, shared that the programme has significantly expanded this year with a target of onboarding 50 promising students from top institutions.

Scheduled to take place from May 20–22, 2026, at Taj Cidade de Goa Horizon, Goafest 2026 continues to strengthen its commitment towards building a future-ready creative and marketing ecosystem.